Short answerIf you are left-handed, buy a double-bevel Japanese knife. Global states its G-2, G-46 and GS-3 are double bevel for both right- and left-handed use, and Tojiro's VG10 series is double bevel too.
A single-bevel knife is sharpened on one side only, which makes it cut straight for one hand and steer for the other. Traditional Japanese knives such as the deba and yanagiba are usually single bevel and made right-handed by default.
A double-bevel knife is sharpened on both sides. Western-style Japanese knives (gyuto, santoku, petty) are usually double bevel. Global's Japanese spec pages state it directly: double bevel, for both right- and left-handed use. Tojiro lists its Classic series as double bevel, while noting that its boning knife and bread slicer are single bevel.
| Model | Type | Blade length | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global G-2Check price on Amazon | Chef's knife (gyuto) | 7.9 in | Double bevel (left or right hand) |
| Global G-46Check price on Amazon | Santoku | 7.1 in | Double bevel (left or right hand) |
| Global GS-3Check price on Amazon | Petty knife | 5.1 in | Double bevel (left or right hand) |
| Tojiro F-808Check price on Amazon | Chef's knife (gyuto) | 8.3 in | Double bevel |
| Tojiro F-503Check price on Amazon | Santoku | 6.7 in | Double bevel |
Scroll the table sideways. Figures are from official maker specs (check dates are on each product page).
Global's classic 20 cm (about 8 in) chef's knife with the dimpled stainless handle. At 170 g it is light for its length.
Good forYou want a light, low-maintenance all-steel knife. You are left-handed (the maker says the edge suits either hand).
Watch outYou prefer a heavier knife or a wooden handle.
Global's 18 cm santoku. Shorter and taller than the G-2, with the same all-stainless build.
Good forYour cutting board is small. You mostly chop vegetables.
Watch outYou want to slice large roasts (a longer gyuto is easier).
A 13 cm petty (utility) knife for small jobs: fruit, garlic, trimming.
Good forYou want a second knife for small tasks.
Watch outIt is your only knife (get a gyuto or santoku first).
Tojiro's long-selling VG10 gyuto, 210 mm (about 8.3 in). Outside Japan it is usually sold as the Tojiro DP; in Japan the series is now called Tojiro Classic.
Good forYou want a VG10 edge at a moderate price. You want a Western-style handle.
Watch outYou never sharpen (you would not get the benefit of the harder core).
The santoku version of the same VG10 series, 170 mm.
Good forYou want a compact VG10 all-rounder.
Watch outYou need a long blade for large cuts.
How we researched this We compiled the specs from official maker pages and Japanese-language manuals and spec sheets (checked 2026-10-25). We have not bought or tested every product ourselves. Makers update their listings, so please confirm on the official page before you buy.